the Balm Cosmetics-Oh So Versatile

Hey dolls.  I went to TJ Maxx the other day to check out if they still had any of the the Balm cosmetics products left over from the holidays.  I scored this set for only $10- which is a great deal because the set normally retails for around $50!

 the Balm set

This particular set came with a lip/cheek stain, a bronzer and a blush.

First up is this lip/cheek stain:

 On lips:

 Swatched on hand:

The full size version of this retails for $17 just by itself, so I thought it was awesome that it came in this package.  As you can see, it leaves my lips a pretty raspberry stain.  On the back of my hand, it left behind a sheer tint after being blended out.

Here is a look at the bronzer:

The packaging says that this particular product can be used as a bronzer, eye shadow or for contouring.

 

 I love the vintage-esque look going on:

 This is actually encased in another cardboard package:

 When you open it up, there is a small mirror included:

 Up close:

 Swatch:

 And here is the blush:

 Again, the cute packaging:

 The packaging states this can be used on the cheeks or as an eyeshadow, but I will only be using this a blush:

 Up close:

 Swatch:

 Upon first swatch, this blush reminded me of Nars Orgasm.  So - I pulled it out and swatched them for you to see:

 Swatches: the Balm Hot Mama! on left and Nars Orgasm on right

As you can see, these are close, but Orgasm has more pink-gold in it than Hot Mama! does.  Hot Mama! has more coral in it.  But, I would make a definite bet that on the cheeks, you wouldn't be able to tell the difference.  This blush is probably the closest dupe to Orgasm that I have.

Final Thoughts

Pros:

•  Different sets available for purchase
• Great range of products
• Pigmented 
• Cute packaging
• Paraben free 
• Products do double-duty i.e. shadow & blush
• Affordable (if purchased at TJ Maxx & other like retailers)

Cons:

• Limited selection (@TJ Maxx)
• Expensive if purchased at the Balm cosmetics store/Sephora

Overall, I am very happy with this purchase.  I would recommend this brand and I would definitely repurchase if the opportunity presents itself.

Do you own anything from the Balm?  Any recommendations?

xoxo